Most of us have been told that we should call the police after a car crash. This is not just for insurance purposes, although having a police report can be helpful. State law does actually require you to call the cops after most crashes. Even if you do not meet the standards for reporting a collision to the cops, it can still be beneficial to call them. A San Angelo, Texas car accident lawyer from our firm can tell you why.
What Should I Do After a Car Crash?
Calling the cops after a car crash should be a top priority, but it’s not the only thing that you should do. We also recommend:
- Moving the cars somewhere safe
- Taking pictures of any injuries, vehicle damage, and the crash scene
- Exchanging insurance info with the other drivers involved
- Talking to any witnesses and getting their contact info
- Avoiding small talk or making statements that could be perceived as admitting fault
While you are doing all of that, someone should be calling the cops to the scene.
Does the Law Require Me to Call the Police After a Car Crash?
You are supposed to call the cops after any car crash that causes an injury or a fatality. They should also be called to the scene if a collision causes property damage of $1,000 or more. These are considered serious crashes, but you might want to call the police and have them make a report even when it doesn’t seem like the situation is that serious.
Why Should I Call the Police After a Car Crash Anyway?
There are a few problems with this reporting criteria. First of all, it can be tough to figure out exactly how much damage a collision caused. Unless you run a body shop yourself, you are not going to be able to eyeball some crash damage and say that it looks like more or less than $1,000 in damage.
Another issue is that many people do not realize that they are injured in the immediate aftermath of a collision. This is a stressful situation and there’s adrenaline pumping through your system. You may not notice a problem until you wake up the next morning or see a doctor. So it’s usually a good idea to just call the police to the crash scene, just in case.
Can I Sue For Damages After a Crash?
If you are injured and you believe that the other driver is to blame, then you can sue for compensation. Our lawyers can help you fight for a fair settlement that makes up for things like medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Ask About Our Free Case Consultations
If you got hurt in a car crash and you want to sue for damages, contact the Mathis Law Firm. We can schedule a free case consultation for you. There’s no obligation, so take the time to learn more about your legal options.
